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Soil Ecology Restoration Group |
Approximately 5 kilometers of ATV trails were established during the year 2000 in support of the Institute for Wildlife Studies (IWS) San Clemente loggerhead shrike (SCLS) release and predator control programs. Upon inspection of these trails, the potential for erosion along these new trails was identified as of particular concern. Though trails formed along gradually sloped areas may not present an erosion problem, those trails that descend the steep fossil sea cliff terrain that separate the terrace platforms are highly susceptible to erosion, especially during the winter rainy season. It is necessary that action to prevent these segments from washing away during the upcoming 2000/2001 rainy season be accomplished as soon as possible, preferably before mid-December 2000.
The Soil Ecology and Restoration Group (SERG), a native habitat restoration research group located at San Diego State University, has over 10 years experience in developing and implementing erosion control methods and procedures in the southern California area. SERG has worked with the California Department of Parks and Recreation, Off-Highway Motor Vehicle Recreation Division, for many years in implementing corrective erosion control methods and in developing erosion control management policies. David Bainbridge, SERG erosion control expert, published "A Handbook for Erosion Control and Watershed Rehabilitation at Hungry Valley State Vehicular Recreation Area" in 1997 to serve as the State Park's management guide for erosion control at its State Vehicle Recreation Areas.
We propose to have David Bainbridge visit San Clemente Island during the month of October, accompanied by both Navy and IWS personnel, to view the approximately 5 kilometers of trails in question. He will then develop both an overall priority listing and suggested methods and procedures for each trail to prevent erosion from occurring. Work would then be accomplished by SERG personnel on the highest priority trails during the months of November and early December to ensure all control methods were installed prior to the 2000/2001 rainy season. Work will include such methods as rubberized water bars, vertical straw barriers or the installation of straw bale diversion dams.
Project Report (December 8, 2002)
